Weight gain: when fat accumulates in the belly

When you gain weight, the pounds often accumulate around your stomach, buttocks, and thighs, especially in women. While having a large belly isn't aesthetically pleasing, this abdominal fat is also dangerous for your health. Why do we gain weight around our midsection? What are the risks?

Causes of weight gain in the abdominal area
Many factors contribute to the development of a large belly. The first is an unbalanced diet, too low in fiber (fruits and vegetables), too high in saturated fats (processed foods, pastries, deli meats), and in foods with a high glycemic index. The second cause is stress. When stressed, women secrete cortisol, a hormone that promotes fat storage in the abdomen. A third factor is insufficient physical activity, which doesn't allow you to burn more calories than you consume. Finally, hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause) can also contribute to fat storage in the belly.

The dangers of abdominal fat
Having a large belly isn't just unsightly. Abdominal fat surrounds the internal organs, including the heart. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke), as well as the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It also increases the risk of cancer. Therefore, it's essential to consider a weight-loss diet and regular physical activity if you're carrying excess weight around your abdomen.